Money Exchange
 

Leaving in 24 days (but who is counting...)
Any suggestions where the best place to convert USD to both GBP and the EURO?
(Bank, Airport, in the UK .vs. USA, etc..)
Thanks!

Take you Visa card and PIN and use them at ATMs showing the Visa logo that are "everywhere you want to be", as their advertising says. I usually get some Euros in the airport when I first land from the US, then play it by ear. Works great and you get a very good exchange rate from your bank.

Have a great trip.

JasonW

Thanks for the info JasonW.
How do you feel about Travelers Checks? They sound like a pain to me, so I am hesiant..but my Mom swears by them. (BTW, never traveled to Europe, so excuse the elementary questions)

Travelers Checks are obsolete and a rip-off. Bring them as a back up if you wish. Here is a thread from just last month discussing TC vs ATM
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34507318

1) ATM tied to your checking account with a 4-digit pin number
2) Cash to exchange at a bank
3) Credit card for emergencies
4) Travelers checks are OK but plan to visit a bank for exchange not spend them directly with a shop or restaurant (most places do not accept them these days)

Generally speaking changing money or using the ATM once you arrive is the best (convenience, rates, lowest fees).

Some people like to get a small amount before the trip (check with your own bank about availability and fees) if they are nervous travelers, are arriving very late, don't have an ATM card, etc.

Marks and Spencer - a national institution in teh shape of a chain store - changes money at favourable rates at some of its larger branches. Also, the Post Office has a good reputation. I don't think either charges commission, but don't quote me.